$33 mil historical epic helmed by Oliver Hirschbiegel

Created by Tom Fontana and directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel (“Downfall”), “The Borgias” centers on the notorious family and patriarch Rodrigo Borgia, who rose to become one of the most controversial and corrupt Renaissance popes.

“The last decade of the 15th century is without a doubt the high point in the cultural history of humankind. It’s an enormous story, ideal for a large-scale film adventure,” said ZDF program director Thomas Bellut.

Budgeted at Euros25 million ($33 million) and produced by Atlantique Prods. in association with EOS Ent. and Canal Plus, “The Borgias” stars John Doman (“The Wire”), Mark Ryder, Stanley Weber and Isolda Dychauk.